Acura NSX (NA1 / NA2) Chassis Guide – 1990 to 2005

The Acura NSX, known globally as the Honda NSX, was produced from 1990 through 2005—every year in sequence:1990, 1991, 1992, 1993, 1994, 1995, 1996, 1997, 1998, 1999, 2000, 2001, 2002, 2003, 2004, and 2005.

This car marked a major shift in the performance car landscape. Developed with direct input from Ayrton Senna, the NSX was created to compete head-to-head with Ferrari—offering exotic performance without the unreliability. It was the world’s first production car with an all-aluminum monocoque chassis and body, reducing weight significantly while maintaining rigidity. The NSX proved that supercar performance didn’t need to come with temperamental maintenance.

Over its 15-year run, it saw two major chassis codes:

  • NA1 (1990–1996): 3.0L V6, 5-speed manual or 4-speed automatic

  • NA2 (1997–2005): 3.2L V6, 6-speed manual, upgraded brakes, and suspension tuning

Key variants included:

  • NSX-T: Targa top version introduced in 1995

  • NSX-R: Japan-only lightweight, track-focused model

  • Zanardi Edition: USDM lightweight limited run (1999 only)

 

Suspension Design

The NSX was engineered with a fully independent double-wishbone suspension on all four corners, aluminum control arms, and a low unsprung weight focus. Honda pulled no punches—it’s essentially a Formula car for the street in layout and geometry. It rewards precision, and with upgraded coilovers, the handling becomes surgically sharp.

nsx coilovers

Wheel Specs & Bolt Pattern

These specs are compatible with all Function and Form wheel spacers and lug nut kits. Ideal spacer thickness is usually 15mm–20mm to flush out factory wheels depending on offset.

 

Year(s) Front Tire Size Rear Tire Size
1990–1993 205/50R15 225/50R16
1994–2001 215/45R16 245/40R17
2002–2005 215/40R17 255/40R17

 

Factory wheels came staggered in both width and diameter to optimize weight distribution and response. Enthusiasts often upgrade to 17/18 or 18/19 setups for improved grip and aesthetics. Coilovers make dialing in fitment much easier.

 

Weight Balance and Handling

  • Curb Weight: ~3,000 lbs (varies by model/year)

  • Weight Distribution: ~42% Front / 58% Rear

This rear-biased setup gives the NSX its legendary balance. It’s mid-engine, naturally aspirated, and built to rotate. But that also means suspension tuning is critical—spring rates and damping affect not just ride quality but how the car rotates mid-corner.

 

Acura Nsx Suspension Upgrades

We offer Function and Form Type suspension upgrades for the Acura NSX—an ideal match for drivers who want precision and adjustability without sacrificing daily comfort.

Type 2 Coilovers:  https://www.f2suspension.com/product/acura-nsx-na1-1990-2005-type-2-coilovers-kit/

Type 3 Coilovers:    https://www.f2suspension.com/product/acura-nsx-na1-na2-1990-2005-type-3-coilovers-kit/

Type 5 Air Suspension: https://www.f2suspension.com/product/acura-nsx-1990-2005-na1-na2-type-5-air-struts/

Front Stabilizer:   https://www.f2suspension.com/product/acura-nsx-1991-2005-front-stabilizer-link/

Rear Stabilizer Link: https://www.f2suspension.com/product/acura-nsx-1991-2005-rear-stabilizer-link/

Lug Nuts: M12 x 1.5

Wheel Spacers: 5×114.3

 
Acura NSX Suspension

 

Frequently Asked Questions:

1. Does Acura still make the NSX?

  • No. The first-generation NSX (NA1/NA2) ceased production in December 2005. Acura revived the nameplate in the second-generation hybrid NSX (2016–2022), built in Marysville, Ohio, but that model has also been discontinued. As of 2025, no new production NSX is currently being made.

2. Acura NSX – how much does it cost?

  • According to Hagerty, 1990s NSX values range widely depending on condition and model year. A well-kept NSX-T from 2005 has sold for as much as $322,500 in 2024—while base coupes originally cost around $90,000 back then
  • A “good condition” first-gen NSX today often lists for $140,000+, with some desirable early NA1s going for $77,000 or more

3. Honda NSX vs Acura NSX – what’s the difference?There is no mechanical difference, it’s a branding distinction:

  • Honda NSX is the name used in Japan and most global markets
  • Acura NSX is the name used in the U.S. and Canada Both are built on the same platforms under Honda’s umbrella

4. Where was the NSX made?

  • First-generation (1990–2005): Built in Japan, primarily at Honda’s Takanezawa R&D Plant in Tochigi through early 2004, then moved to the Suzuka Plant
  • Second-generation (2016–2022): Hand-built at Honda’s Performance Manufacturing Center (PMC) in Marysville, Ohio

5. When did the Honda NSX come out?

  • The prototype NSX (HP‑X) concept debuted in 1984.
  • The production model officially launched at the 1989 Chicago Auto Show, and went on sale as a 1990 model in North America and 1991 model year globally

 

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